Igali praises Goodness Ekunke for FIDE Championship victory

Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Daniel Igali, has commended 14-year-old chess player Goodness Ekunke for his victory at this year's FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Championship. Igali noted that the achievement has brought international recognition to the state.

The commendations were made during a reception for the chess contingent in Yenagoa. During the event, the state's director of sports, Mr. Bibowei Lambert, presented Ekunke with his trophy. Lambert noted that the teenager's talent was evident as early as 2020, when he was eight years old.

Igali also recognized the performances of the Bayefa family members—Oyinleperemor, Miebi, and Eniye—who competed alongside Ekunke in Abuja. He stated that their success supports the current administration's goal of using sports to promote the state's image. He added that participating in such competitions allows athletes to travel and represent Nigeria globally.

Supported by his coach, Kigigha Bomo, Ekunke has secured qualification for the FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Igali has pledged that any difficulties the player encounters while preparing for the Olympiad will be resolved.

Following the reception, a report regarding the achievement will be sent to the deputy governor to be presented to Governor Douye Diri.